I run a small factory producing unique handicrafts but don’t have export qualifications. I’ve heard trading companies can act as export agents—is this true? How exactly does the process work? Is it complicated? What should I watch out for? I’d appreciate insights from experienced individuals to avoid pitfalls and successfully export my products overseas.
The company intends to expand overseas markets and wants to find a Qingdao foreign trade export agency. However, it is worried about its unreliability and asks about the operation process, service quality, charging standards, etc. The best answer points out that there are reliable and unreliable Qingdao foreign trade export agencies. You can examine them from aspects such as standardized operation processes, comprehensive services, and transparent and reasonable charges. By examining qualifications, word-of-mouth, cases, etc., you can find a reliable agency.
The company plans to expand its overseas photovoltaic business. Due to unfamiliarity with the export process, it wants to find a well - known and reliable photovoltaic export agency company in Qingdao. It hopes that the agency has rich experience in customs declaration, logistics, customs clearance, etc., and can guarantee the service quality. The best answer recommended Zhongshitong, which has rich experience in the field of photovoltaic export agency, accurate and fast customs declaration, excellent logistics solutions, strong customs clearance ability, and a good reputation, which can effectively guarantee the photovoltaic export business.
The person in charge of an SME wants to expand overseas markets. Due to the complexity of the export process, they plan to find an agent and ask how much it generally costs for SMEs to use export agency services, how the fees are calculated, and whether there are any hidden fees. The best answer states that there is no fixed standard for export agency fees. Commonly, it is charged at a rate of 1% - 5% of the order amount or a fixed fee of 2000 - 10000 yuan. Before cooperation, the fee items should be clarified and a detailed contract should be signed.
I'm new to export agency business and want to know if overt and covert commissions still exist in this field, including their operational details and business impacts. The best answer confirms both types remain: overt commissions are explicitly stated in documents and directly deducted by foreign clients, while covert commissions are privately paid after receiving full payment. Overt commissions offer transparency for cost calculation, while covert ones require compliance attention.
I want to apply for an import and export agency but don't know where to start. I'm asking about the application steps, required materials, and enterprise qualification requirements. The best answer points out that first, register legally to obtain a business license, then go to the commercial department to handle the record-filing registration of foreign trade operators. Next, do customs record-filing, inspection and quarantine record-filing, and electronic port access. Finally, handle the registration of the foreign exchange receipt and payment list. Just prepare the materials and follow the steps as required.
I want to understand the calculation method of the company's import and export agency quotation and am worried about being cheated. The best answer states that the quotation usually includes a basic agency fee (ranging from 0.5% - 5% of the cargo value, determined according to factors such as the goods), an operation fee (charged at a fixed rate per ticket), a transportation fee (calculated based on the transportation mode, etc.), a document fee, etc. If there is tax advance, interest will also be charged. It is necessary to clarify each charging item with the agency to avoid disputes.
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Professional consultant answers
Andrew HuangYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Supply chain optimization expertConsult
Trading companies can indeed act as export agents. Many factories and businesses without export qualifications or experience opt for trading companies to handle exports on their behalf.
The general process is as follows: First, sign an export agency agreement with the trading company to clarify rights and obligations. Then, deliver the goods to the company’s designated warehouse or arrange transport to the port, where the trading company handles customs clearance, inspection, etc. After shipment, the company collects export documents and processes tax refunds.
However, when selecting a trading company, prioritize reputable and experienced ones like Zhongshitong to ensure smooth operations. Also, clearly define costs, responsibilities, and other key terms in the agreement to avoid disputes.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
Export agency through trading companies is common and helps non-qualified factories expand overseas. Choose reliable agents—avoid shell companies—and detail all terms in the agreement, such as agency fees and tax refund handling.
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
Yes, they can. Trading companies are more familiar with export processes, like communicating with foreign clients and logistics. But ensure product quality control—if issues arise, the company may hold you accountable per the agreement.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Absolutely. Trading companies can tackle challenges like complex import/export paperwork. But compare agency fees—some charge unreasonably—and pick cost-effective options.
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Trading companies can handle exports. Before partnering, research their past export cases to assess capability. Also, learn basic export processes—don’t rely solely on the agent.
Emily LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
They can. But manage cash flow carefully—ensure the trading company transfers foreign client payments promptly to mitigate financial risks.
Jennifer WangYears of service：4Customer Rating：5.0
Market development consultantConsult
Export agency is viable. Prioritize cargo insurance—negotiate terms with the trading company to safeguard shipments.
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
Yes. When choosing an agent, assess their responsiveness—delays in problem-solving during export can be troublesome.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
Trading companies can act as export agents. Establish clear communication channels for updates on cargo status and document progress to plan production accordingly.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Export agency is possible. Clarify tax refund responsibilities with the trading company to prevent losses and protect your interests.